Follow Us on Google
From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dr Dele Alake said Nigeria and the rest of Africa are taking bold steps to boost value addition, deepen regional cooperation, and drive sustainable growth in the gold and gemstone value chain.
Alake stated this in Abuja at a media briefing ahead of the 4th African Gems and Jewellery Exhibition & Conference / Gold & Gemstone Conference and Exhibition (AGJEC/GGCE 2025) scheduled to hold in Lagos.
Represented by the Executive Secretary of the Solid Minerals Development Fund, Fatima Shinkafi, the Minister said the theme for 2025, “Accelerating Collaboration for Sustainable Gold and Gem Development in Africa,” captures Africa’s collective resolve to transform its mineral wealth into real economic gains.
He lamented that although the continent holds nearly a third of the world’s mineral resources, it earns only a fraction of global mineral value — a gap he described as “a huge opportunity waiting to be tapped.”
Alake outlined ongoing reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, including enhanced transparency, accelerated geological data gathering, improved local refining and processing, and formalisation of artisanal mining.
According to him, these measures will protect mining communities, boost government revenue, and make solid minerals a major driver of industrial growth.
The Minister noted that gold and gemstones hold massive potential for job creation, especially for women and youth, as value multiplies significantly from extraction to polishing and jewellery production.
Other News
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to responsible sourcing, certification, and a shift from exporting raw minerals to producing world-class finished products.
Alake praised Women in Mining in Nigeria (WIMIN) for championing inclusivity and pledged continued support for training, safer practices, and community development.
He revealed that the 2025 conference will feature technical sessions, mentorship programmes, and workshops aimed at expanding opportunities for young people and women. The event will also promote regional integration and boost Africa’s participation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The Minister urged the media to spotlight positive stories that showcase innovation and leadership in the mining industry, expressing optimism that the Lagos event will push Nigeria closer to building a world-class minerals sector.
President of Women in Mining in Nigeria, Mrs Janet Adeyemi, said women are emerging as strong leaders in the sector. She stressed the need for responsible resource management and warned that sidelining women undermines national development.
Adeyemi highlighted the growth of the Gold and Gem Conference since 2021 and celebrated the creation of Nigeria’s first national crown made from locally sourced gemstones — which she described as a symbol of Nigeria’s creativity and potential.
Permanent Secretary, Mr Faruk Yabo, represented by Dr Esther Udo, said the 2025 edition will showcase Africa’s cultural, creative, and commercial strengths along the gemstone and jewellery value chain. He promised a revamped exhibition layout, richer sessions, and greater youth involvement as the Ministry works to improve product quality and global competitiveness.
